Bring These 5 Things When Preparing for Camping
Planning a camping getaway? Start by putting together the essentials because that’s what will make it either an excellent adventure or a living nightmare. When you’re out in the wild, you need reliable supplies in your backpack to make it a restful vacation.
We’re not just talking about appropriate clothing and footwear to weatherproof yourself and food to fill your belly. No, that goes without saying. We’re particularly referring to accessories (often missed) that can make a world of difference when they’re there and leave you frustrated and suffering if they aren’t.
Here are the five must-haves for a restful and adventurous camping getaway:
1. Fire starter
Unless you enjoy grinding to start a simple fire, you want a firestarter kit in your backpack. What makes it a worthy investment? Well, it helps facilitate the fire-starting process by providing you with a consistent flame that can then catch on to the kindling and wood. So instead of struggling with the kindling, dry leaves, and plastic bags, all you need is a fire starter kit to start the fire.
If you’re in a hurry and unable to pack a fire starter kit, get some vaseline (petroleum jelly) and a few small cotton balls for a DIY fix. Completely cover the cotton in vaseline and fire it up for a consistent flame. This DIY fire starter (cotton soaked in petroleum jelly) will give you a flame that lasts for between four to five minutes.
2. Sleeping bag
Apart from being comfortable and warm, a sleeping bag allows you to be ready for the unexpected. You may lose or damage your tent. If it happens, you’ll at least have your sleeping bag to rely on for shelter.
You can also purchase sleeping bags in different shapes: rectangular, double-size, semi-rectangular, etc. This allows you to use them as blankets and comforters as well. Lastly, they’re water resistant, don’t cost much and protect you from mosquitoes and other insects.
3. First aid kit
Don’t be surprised if you have body aches and blisters on your feet after hiking for a whole day. When you’re not used to it, even something as little as picking up a few wooden planks can result in blisters and cuts that may require bandaging. This is why you must never forget a first aid kit when preparing for a camping trip.
Scissors, bandages, antiseptic, painkillers, soap, sunscreen, insect repellent and wipes are a few first-aid essentials that all of the best first aid kits (https://sailmagazine.com/review/first-aid-kit/) should have!
4. Kitchen related supplies
You’re going to need plates, knives, forks and spoons for eating your food. If you’re planning to have a BBQ, you’ll need to pack skewers, oil, spices and a basting brush too. You must also bring along enough water for everybody so you’re hydrated at all times.
5. Powerbank
You’ll want to keep your phone charged at all times. It’s important that you have your phone on for emergencies. You’re also going to need your phone for its flashlight, navigation and entertainment.
Since you probably won’t have much access to electricity on a camping trip, having a power bank allows you to be free from the worry of your cell phone dying. A power bank will also allow you to charge your GoPro, gaming devices and Bluetooth speakers.
The Takeaway
Make sure to go through your itinerary once again and carefully contemplate everything else you’re going to need. Lastly, remember to adventure responsibly, watch out for wildlife and always be prepared for emergencies.